Moldova strengthens political support in European Parliament, receives recognition for its European path

President Maia Sandu today is on a working visit to Strasbourg, where she had meetings with European Parliament President Roberta Metsola and the leaders of the main political groups represented in the European Parliament, focused on advancing Moldova’s European path and on regional security.

The meeting with President of the European Parliament Roberta Metsola reconfirmed the firm support of the European legislature for the process of accession to the European Union. The visit’s agenda includes separate discussions with representatives of more political groups: the Progressive Alliance of Socialists and Democrats, the Greens/European Free Alliance, the European Conservatives and Reformists, Renew Europe and the European People’s Party. The meetings aim to strengthen political support for the opening of accession negotiations and for the reforms that Moldova is implementing in the integration process.

During the visit, President Maia Sandu was awarded the European Order of Merit, granted for firmly setting Moldova on the European path, for strengthening democratic governance, transparency and the rule of law, as well as for enhancing the country’s resilience against hybrid threats, disinformation and attempts at destabilization, thus contributing to a safer and more democratic Europe. In her acceptance speech, delivered in the plenum of the European Parliament, the Moldovan head of state dedicated the distinction to the citizens of Moldova: “This distinction belongs to the people of Moldova. They are the ones who have earned it,” the Moldovan president said.

At the same time, the head of state highlighted the efforts of the Moldovan society to defend democracy and the country’s European direction, despite external pressure and security challenges. In conclusion, President Maia Sandu addressed a call to the European institutions and EU Member States to support the next steps in the accession process: “My call to you, to the EU institutions and the member states, is simple: reward this merit. Allow Moldova to move forward on its European path,” the head of state concluded.

The European Order of Merit recognizes the achievements of individuals who have made a significant contribution to European integration or to the promotion and defence of the values enshrined in the treaties. Its purpose is to inspire future generations by highlighting civic courage and commitment to European ideals. The distinction was established on the occasion of the 75th anniversary of the Schuman Declaration, which laid the foundations of European unity. The full list of the 13 laureates of the European Order of Merit can be consulted here: https://www.europarl.europa.eu/news/ro/press-room/20260511IPR43116/first-european-order-of-merit-ceremony-media-information.